Heavyweight Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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heavyweight

[ˈhɛviˌweɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

boxing category

Heavyweight refers to a weight class in boxing and other combat sports for the heaviest competitors. In boxing, heavyweights typically weigh over 200 pounds (90.72 kg). This category is known for featuring powerful fighters capable of delivering significant knockout punches. The heavyweight division has produced some of the most famous boxers in history, such as Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson. A heavyweight can also metaphorically describe a person or thing of considerable impact or importance.

Synonyms

giant, heavy hitter, heavyweight boxer.

Examples of usage

  • He won the heavyweight championship title.
  • The heavyweight fight was the main event.
  • Many boxing legends hail from the heavyweight division.
Context #2 | Adjective

significant weight

As an adjective, heavyweight describes something that is physically heavy or has substantial mass. It can apply to objects that are difficult to lift or carry due to their weight. Additionally, it can describe individuals or entities that hold significant influence or power in various fields. For instance, a heavyweight in the business world is a leading figure with considerable authority.

Synonyms

heavy, massive, weighty.

Examples of usage

  • The heavyweight equipment required special transportation.
  • He's a heavyweight in the tech industry.
  • Their heavyweight presence was felt at the conference.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Sports

  • In boxing, the heavyweight division includes fighters who weigh over 200 pounds, making it one of the most popular and watched divisions.
  • Legendary boxers like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson are iconic figures in the heavyweight boxing category.

Pop Culture

  • Heavyweight wrestlers also play a significant role in professional wrestling, showcasing strength and charisma, leading to iconic storylines.
  • The term 'heavyweight' is often used in movies to classify blockbuster films that have a strong impact and big budgets.

Physics

  • In physics, the term contrasts with 'lightweight,' helping to categorize objects based on mass and gravity's effect on them.
  • The concept of weight becomes essential in understanding force and motion, as heavier objects require more effort to move.

Psychology

  • The term can also metaphorically describe someone who has great influence or importance in a particular field or area, like a 'heavyweight' in politics.
  • In group dynamics, 'heavyweight' might refer to a person whose opinions or actions carry more weight in decision-making.

Origin of 'heavyweight'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'heavyweight' originates from the combination of 'heavy' and 'weight,' describing someone or something of substantial mass.
  • It began to be widely used in boxing in the late 19th century, categorizing fighters based on their size.

The term 'heavyweight' originated in the boxing genre in the late 19th century, referring specifically to boxers who surpassed a certain weight limit. The combination of 'heavy' and 'weight' signifies a measure of mass that qualifies athletes for competition in this category. Over time, it has broadened in usage beyond boxing, becoming a metaphorical term in various contexts, including business and politics, to denote individuals or entities of substantial influence or capability. The heavyweight division in boxing has been pivotal in shaping the sport's popularity, producing legendary champions and thrilling matchups. Its historical significance has led to the term being recognized in mainstream culture, often employed to describe those who exert considerable power or presence in any arena.